The Incredible Buchla Model 248, Reborn
It’s hard to overstate how ahead of its time the Buchla 248 Multiple Arbitrary Function Generator (MARF) was when it was released in the ‘70s — in fact, the original unit continues to turn heads even today. Tiptop Audio and Buchla have partnered to bring you a modern, modular re-creation of this remarkably versatile control voltage generator in a sleek 72HP form factor: the 248t. Its 16 stages are programmable as fully continuous, quantized in divisions of 12, mapped to specific voltage ranges, or designated to a specific time interval, with each stage configured independently. The 248t MARF can act as your sequencer, portamento pitch processor, ADSR envelope generator, and so much more. Furthermore, stages can be grouped into subgroups, and you can control each subgroup’s cycle behavior using the onboard First and Last designators and the Sustain and Stop commands. Complete with four External Inputs for integration with the rest of your modular system, two distinct output sections, a knob or CV-controlled Time Multiplier, and a dedicated output for handling ART protocol, Sweetwater's noise makers are clamoring to integrate the 248t MARF into their own 200t Eurorack systems.
Note: This module is not compatible with Buchla system voltages. CV and ART formats require distinct connectivity configurations. Please contact your Sweetwater Sales Engineer with any questions or concerns regarding compatibility or use in your Eurorack case.
Discover the ART of next-gen synthesis
What is ART? In short, it’s the next stage of Eurorack’s evolution. More expansively, it’s the brainchild of Tiptop Audio founder Gur Milstein, marking a groundbreaking, open-spec control signal technology that expands the sonic scope of modular synthesis possibilities. Utilizing ART-capable modules allows synthesists and sound designers to explore complex modular terrains, including polyphonic Eurorack synthesis and inventive modular arrangements through paired gate or velocity outputs. Because ART modules utilize Eurorack signal levels for both oscillator audio and CV/gate controls, alongside sharing the same power connectors, these can be seamlessly intermixed with standard Eurorack gear via 3.5-millimeter patch cables. Unlike the Eurorack-standard 1V/octave model, ART signals transmit multiple dimensions of information with near-zero latency, including velocity, modulation, and pressure values, as well as precise pitch information.
At its core, the ART signal replaces the prohibitively tricky, time-consuming, and creatively stifling method of tuning modules with 1V/octave CV. Select ART modules feature innovative connectors that utilize Tiptop Audio’s custom-developed Polytip patch cables, directly enabling polyphonic performances via lightning-fast transmission of detailed information between modules. So, why create with ART? This framework unlocks the full potential of the Eurorack modular architecture by solving the artistic, harmonic, and structural woes that were an inevitable outcome of the space’s nascent technological limitations. In other words, ART expands Eurorack without compromising the spirit that’s inspired countless musicians for decades, producing exciting vectors to summit the previously insurmountable heights of modular synthesis.
Tiptop Audio 248t Features:
- Modern re-creation of the legendary Buchla 248 Multiple Arbitrary Function Generator (MARF) for the 200t Eurorack series
- Immensely versatile programmable control voltage generator in a 72HP form factor
- 16 stages programmable as fully continuous, quantized in divisions of 12, mapped to specific voltage ranges, designated to a specific interval of time, with each stage configured independently
- Use as a sequencer, to shape portamento, or to generatre ADSR envelopes
- Place stages into subgroups and control cycle behavior via First or Last designators or Sustain and Stop commands
- Each clock controls its own distinct subsection
- One-Shot Mode runs a clock’s sequence without looping
- Manipulate stages internally or externally with 4 External Inputs for integration with the rest of your modular system
- Control step time modulation via external voltage
- 2 distinct output sections allow different stages to be accessed simultaneously
- Inputs for Start and Stop join outputs for stored Voltage, ramp Reference, Time-proportional voltage, and 2 assignable Pulse outputs
- Knob or CV-controlled Time Multiplier scales stage timing from 0.5x to 4x
- Non-volatile memory means you can recall presets even after the module has been turned off
- Compatible with Tiptop Audio’s ART protocol — simple tuning and polyphonic control with the 259t and other ART-equipped modules
